Testing and quality control solutions
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) plays a critical role in reducing aviation’s carbon footprint while maintaining the safety, reliability and performance required of aviation turbine fuels.
Stanhope-Seta provides proven laboratory instruments and Certified Reference Materials that support the development, approval and routine quality control of SAF, Synthetic Aviation Turbine Fuel (SATF) and Synthetic Blend Components (SBC).
With decades of experience in aviation fuel testing and active involvement in international standards development, Stanhope-Seta is trusted by fuel producers, laboratories and regulators worldwide.
Global benchmark in fuel testing solutions
Solutions aligned with ASTM, IP, ISO, CEN and DEF STAN requirements
ISO 17034 Certified Reference Materials
Designed and manufactured in the UK with worldwide support
What is Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)?
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is an aviation turbine fuel containing synthesised hydrocarbons derived from sustainable feedstock’s produced according to approved specifications. SAF is blended with conventional Jet A/Jet A-1 to make a drop-in aviation fuel, meaning it is approved for use in aircraft and infrastructure.
SAF is currently produced from a wide range of feedstock’s including:
Waste oils and fats
Used cooking oil
Biomass and sugars
Alcohol to jet and synthetic gas pathways
Depending on the production route, SAF is introduced into aviation fuel as a Synthetic Blend Component (SBC) in accordance with ASTM D7566, before being approved and released as Jet A or Jet A-1 meeting specifications ASTM D1655 and DEF STAN 91-091.
Why SAF testing is critical
While SAF offers significant environmental benefits, it must meet the same stringent safety, performance and specifications as conventional aviation fuel.
Fuel safety
Ensuring flash point, cleanliness and water separation performance meet aviation requirements.
Compatibility
Managing subtle differences in chemical composition compared to conventional jet fuel.
Contamination control
Detecting trace levels of FAME, ethanol or other prohibited components.
Aircraft performance
Verifying properties such as dielectric constant that affect fuel gauging systems.
Accurate, reliable testing is essential to ensure compliance, prevent costly delays and maintain confidence throughout the SAF supply chain.
SAF standards and specifications
Stanhope-Seta instruments support testing in line with key international aviation fuel standards and test methods, including:
Energy Institute (IP) methods, including IP 638, IP 583, IP 617, IP 565, IP 34, IP 523, IP 170, IP 534, IP 620, IP 624.
These standards define the framework for SAF approval, blending, certification and ongoing quality control.
Key SAF test parameters and Stanhope-Seta instruments
Flash Point
Why it matters: Flash point is a critical safety parameter for aviation fuels, ensuring safe handling and operation.
Standards: ASTM D93, ASTM D3828, ASTM D7094, IP 34, IP 523, IP 620
Dielectric Constant
(Relative Permittivity)
Why it matters: Aircraft fuel gauging systems rely on dielectric constant to determine fuel quantity. Small variations in SAF composition can affect gauge accuracy.
Standards: IP 638, ASTM D4054
FAME Content
(Fatty Acid Methyl Esters)
Why it matters: FAME is tightly restricted in aviation fuels due to risks of filter blockage, freeze point and system incompatibility. Trace contamination causes non-compliance.
Standards: ASTM D7797, IP 583
Ethanol Content
Why it matters: While ethanol is widely used in road fuels, it is not permitted in aviation fuels. Ensuring ethanol-free aviation gasoline is a critical step in quality assurance.
Particle Counting and Cleanliness
Why it matters: Solid particles and water droplets can cause erosion, corrosion and filter blockage in aircraft fuel systems.
Standards: ASTM D7619, IP 565
Water Separation Characteristics
Why it matters: SAF blends may contain additives that affect water coalescence. Poor water separation can lead to system failures and contamination risks.
Standards: ASTM D8073, IP 624
Cetane / Ignition Quality
Why it matters: New synthetic blend components must meet combustion requirements in ASTM D4054 when evaluated for inclusion in ASTM D7566. Combustion is determined by Indicated Cetane Number.
Standards: ASTM D8183, IP 617
Certified Reference Materials for SAF
Reliable testing requires reliable calibration and verification.
Stanhope-Seta produces a comprehensive range of Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) and verification materials for SAF testing.
All materials are produced in Stanhope-Seta’s ISO 17025 and ISO 17034 accredited laboratory, ensuring traceability and confidence for audited laboratories.
Flash point reference materials >
FAME calibration and verification standards >
Ethanol calibration and verification materials >
Beyond Sustainable Aviation Fuel
In addition to SAF, Stanhope-Seta provides instrument testing solutions for:
- Renewable diesel and synthetic distillates
- Marine fuels and marine methanol
- Road fuel blends and biofuels
- Heating fuels and alternative energy applications
This allows customers operating across multiple fuel sectors to rely on a single, trusted testing partner.
Talk to our Sustainable Aviation Fuel experts
Whether you are developing new SAF pathways, qualifying synthetic blend components, or performing routine quality control, Stanhope-Seta can support your testing requirements.